Moving Appliances Overseas:

Seek expert advice when considering shipping your appliances abroad.

Here are some key issues to keep in mind:

    * Should I include my major appliances in my shipment?

          o If your company is paying for your move, check that policy allows for major appliances to be included.

          o If you are paying for your move, check before deciding to include major appliances that may incur an additional freight charge whether they will be suitable for use at your new destination.

    * Will my appliances be suitable?

What works at home may not work at your new destination:

          o Are electrical voltage/cycles compatible? If not, find out whether existing appliances successfully by using a transformer? Or does the appliance already have a dual voltage or multi-system option?

          o In the case of TVs and VCRs, different countries have different broadcast signal standards: check that your TV will be able to receive local broadcasts.

          o Are plugs/sockets compatible? If not, what is the correct configuration? Find out how to acquire the right plugs or converters.

          o Will the space available be sufficient to accommodate what you have? Take a measuring Packing Tape with you on your pre-assignment trip, and note down the dimensions of the relevant rooms and spaces, including any stairwells and elevators that will be used to access your new accommodation.

    * Will I need something different than I have now?

Local circumstances may dictate the need for different types of appliance. For example:

          o In tropical climates, a larger refrigerator may be needed since more food items will need refrigeration than in cooler climates where pantry-type storage is adequate.

          o In some countries, built-in vacuum systems are the norm in newer houses so a vacuum cleaner may not be needed.

          o Does your washing machine have a built-in water heater so that it can run on a cold water supply if required?

    * Shall I buy now or later?

          o If I have to acquire new appliances, should I purchase these before I leave and ship them, or purchase them after arrival?

          o Are suitable appliances easy to find locally?

          o Are suppliers well-stocked or will you have to wait for delivery?

          o How do prices compare?

    * What about servicing?

          o Check what warranties exist on your appliances. If you are purchasing new, make sure that the warranty offers international coverage.

          o Find out whether there are maintenance and parts services available locally for the brand of appliance that you are considering.